Here comes T Mobile’s G2 phone
OK. I know it’s not really called the G2. But it’s easier to use that moniker rather than it’s real name – the “myTouch 3G.”
Whatever you call it – it’s the world’s second Google/Android-OS-based is about to hit T-Mobile stores in the next few weeks.
Here in New York, yesterday, they threw a big press party for journalists to tell us that the new handset will be available to pre-order for current T-Mobile customers beginning tomorrow, July 8th.
The handset is the first second-generation Android smartphone. It runs on the latest version of the Android OS (1.5/Cupcake) and contains a very similar set of software features as it’s bigger brother, the G1.
I call the G-1 bigger because physically it is. But, it’s only slightly bigger.
The G-1 is longer than the new phone and very slightly thicker. The G-1 has a slide-out, QWERTY keyboard (as does the Palm Pre) while the new myTouch has only an on-screen, virtual, software keyboard (a la Apple’s iPhones).
When the two phones were placed slide-by-side, I was amazed to find that myTouch wasn’t all that much smaller or thinner than the older design. The myTouch does look sleeker though when the G-1 isn’t right next to it.
There are also some specific software differences between the two phones – the most interesting of which is support for Microsoft Outlook e-mail. Considering the fierce competition between the two companies Outlook support is an amazing feature. Don’t forget we’re talking about a Google/Android device that deals with Microsoft Outlook e-mail – a favorite of businesses around the world.
myTouch 3G will retail for $199.99 with a 2-year service agreement. Devices sold through pre-sale will begin shipping in late July. Others will be able to buy their myTouch 3G beginning early August. You can find out more by visiting T-Mobile’s Customers can visit the myTouch 3G’s special Website.
I hope to have a test device very soon and will let you know what it’s like to actually use a myTouch 3G as soon as possible.